Particle.news
Download on the App Store
3 ARTICLES
·
yesterday

Villanova Celebrates Alumnus Pope Leo XIV, the First American Pontiff

Pope Leo XIV declines a Villanova commencement invitation but maintains close ties to his alma mater as the university sees a surge in attention.

An informational sign is displayed on St. Thomas of Villanova Church on the Villanova University campus Thursday, May 8, 2025 in Villanova, Pa. (AP Photo/Matt Slocum)
A signage adorns Villanova University in Villanova, Pennsylvania, U.S., May 9, 2025. REUTERS/Hannah Beier
A general view of the Villanova University campus is seen, Thursday, May 8, 2025 in Villanova, Pa. (AP Photo/Matt Slocum)
Newly elected Pope Leo XIV appears at the balcony of St. Peter's Basilica at the Vatican, Thursday, May 8, 2025. (AP Photo/Andrew Medichini)

Overview

  • Cardinal Robert Prevost, a 1977 Villanova alumnus, was elected Pope Leo XIV on May 6, marking the first time an American has led the Catholic Church.
  • Villanova University President Rev. Peter Donohue invited the pope to speak at the 2026 commencement, a request that was humorously declined due to logistical challenges.
  • Rev. Donohue remains optimistic about a potential future campus visit by Pope Leo XIV during a U.S. trip, possibly aligning with a future commencement season.
  • The university has experienced a significant rise in media attention and social-media engagement, with thousands of new followers and widespread coverage of its connection to the pope.
  • Pope Leo XIV has maintained strong ties to Villanova over decades, including frequent visits, receiving an honorary doctorate in 2014, and ongoing engagement with the university's leadership.